Macro Photography:
Macro photography is a technique that allows you to magnify and capture the smallest details of an object, making them visible and accessible for study and analysis. For dentists and dental technicians, macro photography becomes an essential tool for documenting the condition of teeth, oral mucosa, dental defects, treatment procedures, and detailed images of the dental technician’s work process.
In this article, we will discuss how macro photography is beneficial for dentists and dental technicians, and what advantages it provides in dental practice.
1. Documentation and Analysis of Oral Cavity Condition:
Macro photography allows capturing details and changes in the condition of teeth, gums, oral mucosa, and other oral structures. Captured photos can be used to analyze pathologies, defects, damages, and to study the dynamics of patient treatment. Even the smallest surgical interventions can become an excellent case study for future clients.
2. Education and Enlightenment:
• Macro photography allows demonstrating and explaining to patients the state and problems of the oral cavity, making the treatment process more understandable and accessible. An example, though unpleasant but illustrative, is macro photography of cyst removal and the consequences it leads to.
• High-resolution photos can be used for training students in dental and medical schools. Such photos are perfect for dental conferences and continuing education lectures.
3. Professional Monitoring and Analysis of Procedures:
Macro photography helps dentists and dental technicians monitor and assess the quality of procedures and treatment outcomes. Implantation, complex extractions, crown fixation, sinus lifting—all of these should be documented. Photos taken before and after patient treatment allow professionals to conduct a detailed analysis and adjust their approach if necessary.
4. Advertising and Marketing Services:
High-quality photos, such as those of implantations taken using macro photography, can be used to create advertising materials and marketing campaigns for dental clinics. Before and after photos of treatment procedures can attract new clients and enhance the specialist’s reputation.
Product Photography
Let’s also consider product photography and how it can benefit a clinic. A creative approach to photography in dentistry has become very popular in recent years, often through product photography.
Product photography is the art of capturing objects in great detail, highlighting their features and appeal. Macro photography can also be product photography. In dental photography, a creative approach to macro photography is crucial due to the competition in creating memorable content.
Product photography, especially when shot in macro, emphasizes every detail of the object, making it more attractive to the viewer. Through precise focusing and lighting, photos can showcase the texture, shape, colors, and other nuances of the object. This helps explore the subject more deeply and convey its essence. This type of photography is essential for dental technicians as it best conveys the quality of finely crafted work. Documenting the entire process of creating a crown, the gradual application of ceramics, the results of firing—by documenting all this, the dental technician builds an excellent portfolio. This applies not only to single works. Bridges, dentures, veneers are excellent materials both for the dental technician personally and for promoting the clinic.
Product photography plays a significant role in advertising and promoting products. Well-shot photos help attract potential buyers, present the product in the best light, and stand out among competitors. Successful product photography contributes to increased sales and improved brand image. For example, if your clinic collaborates with manufacturers of oral hygiene products or implants, product photography for publishing this information on the website or social networks is an excellent option.
Product photography in dental settings offers a great opportunity for creative expression. Don’t be afraid to experiment with lighting, colors, backgrounds, and props for your shoots.
Most importantly, the camera used for such photography doesn’t play a significant role. The main work is done by the lenses. Therefore, for these types of shoots, you can use the same lenses you use for photo protocols and intraoral shots. A 100mm lens is perfect for macro photography.
If you find it challenging to focus manually, switch the lens to autofocus. This way, you can shoot not only with a tripod but also handheld. For macro photography indoors, it’s advisable to use flash lighting. You can place two softboxes with synchronizers on either side of the object you’re photographing. The settings suitable for portrait photography of patients can be used here—for example, f/20, shutter speed 1/125, and ISO 100. Remember, these settings are not universal, and you can always adjust them as needed: f from 18 to 22, shutter speed from 1/125 to 1/160, ISO from 100 to 200.
For product photography, a 100mm or 50mm lens can also be suitable. Product photography benefits from flash and colored lighting, making the shots more commercial and appealing.
Don’t forget that photos of this type almost always need editing. You can read about photo editing programs in our article. The more you practice, the better your results will be.
